Storing Roasting Pans: Tips And Tricks

Roasting pans are a staple in many kitchens, but they can be bulky and difficult to store. Here are some tips to help you find the perfect spot for your roasting pan:

- Use a file organizer: Place a standing, non-tiered file organizer in a kitchen cabinet and put a cookie sheet in each section to keep large, flat pans separated and easy to grab.

- Basket on top of the fridge: If the top of your fridge is accessible, place a deep basket there to store your roasting pan. Choose a basket that is a few inches less than the width of your fridge so it fits nicely.

- Deep cabinet drawer: If you have deep drawers in your kitchen, they are the perfect spot for storing roasting pans. You can even stack them! Don't forget about the under-the-oven storage drawer, which is usually deep enough to accommodate a few large pans.

- Install a hanging kitchen rail: If you're short on cabinet space, hang your roasting pan on a wall-mounted kitchen rail. This saves space and adds a chic, utilitarian element to your kitchen.

- Wide, deep cabinet: If you have the luxury of a large cabinet, this is the ideal spot to store your roasting pan.

- Drawer under the oven: Most ovens have a pull-out drawer underneath that can be used for storage. This is a convenient place to keep your roasting pan when not in use.

In a wide, deep cabinet

If you have a wide, deep cabinet in your kitchen, this is the perfect place to store your roasting pan. If you have a small kitchen, storing large cookware can be challenging, but a wide, deep cabinet can be a good solution.

To make the most of your cabinet space, consider adding an extra shelf. This will give you more flat surface area to work with, allowing you to store more pots and pans, or extra lids. You could also use a heavy-duty file sorter to separate and organise your pans.

If your cabinet is in a corner, you might want to consider installing a special pull-out rack, such as a lazy susan, to make the space more accessible. Alternatively, you could use a shallow box or a basket to store your roasting pan and make it easier to pull out.

In the drawer under the oven

If you're looking to store your roasting pan in the drawer under your oven, there are a few things to consider. Firstly, not all oven drawers are meant for storage. Some are warming drawers, broilers, or a combination of the two. To determine the purpose of your oven drawer, consult your oven's manual or contact the manufacturer. If you don't have access to the manual, try searching for a PDF version online.

If your oven drawer is indeed for storage, it's important to note that it can get quite warm due to its proximity to the oven. Therefore, only store items made of oven-safe materials, such as metal cookware like cookie sheets, cast-iron pans, and skillets. Do not store anything plastic, paper, or cloth, as these materials may melt or catch fire. Additionally, avoid storing flammable items such as cookbooks or hand towels.

If your roasting pan is made of carbon steel, ensure that it is completely dry before storing it in the oven drawer, as carbon steel is prone to rusting. You may also want to place a kitchen towel or trivet between your roasting pan and other cookware to prevent scratches.

By following these guidelines, you can safely and effectively utilize the drawer under your oven for roasting pan storage.

In a file organiser

Roasting pans can be bulky and take up a lot of space, but there are some clever ways to store them using file organisers.

Firstly, you need to find a file organiser that fits your space. You can find these at thrift stores or online. Look for a standing, non-tiered file organiser that fits inside your kitchen cabinet. If you have a narrow cabinet, you might need to get creative with plywood and scrap wood to create a custom shelf.

Once you have your file organiser, you can start storing your roasting pans. Place each pan in its own section, making sure they are standing up and separated. This will make it easy to grab the pan you need without causing an avalanche of cookware. If you have deeper vessels like casserole dishes, you can use a heavy-duty file sorter to keep them organised and easily accessible.

You can also use file organisers to store the lids for your roasting pans. Command hooks are a great way to hang lids on the back of your cabinet doors or on a wall. This way, you can easily find the right-size lid when you need it.

With these tips, you can efficiently store your roasting pans using file organisers and make the most of your kitchen space.

On top of the fridge

If you're looking to store your roasting pan on top of the fridge, there are a few things to keep in mind. Firstly, the space above your refrigerator can be a great storage spot, but it's important to avoid blocking the appliance's ventilation. Keeping the area clear will help your fridge run efficiently and prevent it from working harder to keep its contents cool.

When it comes to storing your roasting pan, consider using a basket or storage box to keep the area tidy and organised. Choose a basket that is a few inches smaller than the width of your fridge to ensure it fits nicely without hanging over the edge. This will help hide the clutter and make it easier to take the roasting pan in and out.

Another idea is to use a file organiser or a sturdy, free-standing file cabinet to store your roasting pan. This can be a great way to keep your pan separated from other cookware and easily accessible. If you have a cabinet above your fridge, you can also utilise that space by installing an accordion-style rack or organiser to keep your roasting pan and other items neatly organised and within reach.

While the top of the fridge can be a convenient storage spot, it's important to be mindful of the weight and type of items you place there. Avoid storing heavy or breakable items that could fall and cause damage or injury. Additionally, the warmth from the fridge's ventilation can create an ideal environment for mould to form, so it's best to avoid storing bread or other baked goods in this area.

Install a hanging kitchen rail

Hanging kitchen rails are a great way to store roasting pans and other cookware. Here is a guide on how to install one:

First, you need to decide on the style of rail you want and where you want to hang it. Common places for kitchen rails include under upper cabinets, over the range, or above the backsplash. You can purchase kitchen rails from various retailers, such as IKEA and Etsy.

Once you have your rail, the next step is to install it. If you are using IKEA's SEKTION suspension rail, you can cut the rails to your desired length or combine multiple rails. The rails have many holes, so there will always be a hole over a wall stud. You can adjust the rails horizontally before locking them in place.

If you are drilling the rail directly into the wall, make sure you have the proper tools and equipment. Mark the location of the wall studs and use the correct type of screws for your wall type. Ensure the rail is level, as an uneven rail will cause alignment and door problems. You may need to use shims to keep the rail straight if your wall is warped.

With your rail installed, you can now hang your roasting pans and other cookware. Remember to store your roasting pans vertically to save space. You can also hang pots, utensils, mugs, and herbs for a decorative touch.

Frequently asked questions